Apple Admits Slowing Older iPhones, Claims Improved Battery Life

The technology giant issued a rare confession this week when it admitted software updates had been used to limit the performance of earlier model iPhones.

Technology analysts and angry customers have reported in recent days that operating system upgrades have caused older iPhones to slow down considerably, with many suggesting Apple may be using the tactic to encourage fans to buy new phones.

Apple insists that the updates were made with a different objective in mind: it said that the performance of lithium-ion batteries degrades over time, which can sometimes cause phones to suddenly shut down to protect their components.

The company said that its software updates for the iPhone 6, iPhone 6S, iPhone SE and iPhone 7 are designed to ‘smoothen out’ the power demands, prevent surprise closures and prolong battery life.

But updates can also lead to disappointing speeds. This software technique reorders a phone’s incoming commands to make sure they are not all performed in parallel.

Apple says it will continue using the feature with other products in the future, sparking some Apple fans to suggest they may switch to another phone for their next purchase.